Agriculture Journal: Volume-11, Issue-3, March, 2025

Abstract- The worldwide poultry production is continually intensifying with progressively more challenges due to pathogens; hence it is crucial to ensure the bio-safety of the poultry farms and poultry products. This research was therefore designed to isolate and characterize the common pathogens associated with poultry production in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. In addition, sensitivity tests were carried out to proffer solution to farmers in this area. Thirty fecal samples were collected from poultry farms in three towns in the study area using systematic random sampling. Standard microbiological techniques were employed to cultivate, isolate and characterize pathogens from each town. The study revealed the presence of various pathogenic bacteria including Salmonella spp, Escherichia coli, Shigella spp, Streptococcal spp and Staphylococcus aureus. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the isolated pathogens was conducted to determine their sensitivity to commonly used antibiotics. Some of these pathogens were resistant to common antibiotics often used by farmers indicating subnormal applications. The study therefore underscores the urgent need for the government to detail Extension Agents to Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State in order to educate the poultry farmers on proper use of antibiotics. Again, since most of these isolates are zoonotic, caution should be applied in consumption of animal products from this area. The use of alternative bio security measures such as herbs are recommended in order to mitigate the imminent danger of using antibiotics.
Keywords— Antibiotic Resistant, Bacterial Isolates, Pathogens, Zoonotic Disease.

Abstract- An investigation titled “Effect of organic sources of nutrient with or without bio-stimulant {Kappaphycus alvarezii (K Sap)} on growth and yield of linseed" was carried out to assess the influence of different combinations of organic source nutrients, administered at various levels, on crop yield, and overall plant growth of the BLS-4 variety of linseed. During the Rabi season of 2023-24 at Organic Research Farm, Karguan ji, Department of Agronomy, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. The experiment was laid in Randomized block design with 10 treatments and 3 replications with different combination of organic sources nutrients. In all 10 treatment viz T0 (Absolute control); T1 (10 ml K sap); T2 (RDF [NPK: 30:15:20 kg/ha]); T3 (RDF + 10 ml K sap); T4 (RDF through Farmyard manure) (FYM); T5 (100% FYM + 10 ml K sap); T6 (100% RDF through vermi-compost) (VC); T7 (100% Vermi-compost (VC) + 10 ml K sap); T8 (50% VC + 50% FYM) and T9 (50% VC + 50% FYM + 10 ml K sap) were evaluated. From the results it may be concluded that the treatment T2 (RDF-NPK: 30:15:20 kg/ha) was found to be best in the terms of growth, and yield of linseed followed by T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard manure) (FYM) and T9 (50% VC + 50% FYM + 10 ml K sap). The highest net return was also recorded in the T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard manure) (FYM) followed by T9 (50% VC + 50% FYM + 10 ml K sap) and the highest B:C ratio was found in the same with 3.15 and 3.04 respectively. Therefore, for linseed cultivation using farmyard manure as organic source can be beneficial to get better grain yield and economic returns.
Keywords— Linseed, Farmyard Manure, Kappaphycus alvarezii (K Sap), Benefit cost ratio.

Abstract- Broiler production emission is often obnoxious and little is known about complete speciation and levels of volatiles from poultry production due to challenges in selecting reliable sampling technique with less amendment to volatiles’ characteristic. This study aimed to compare the performance between Tenax TA sorbent tube and dynamic headspace sampling methods to distinguish chemical and olfaction analyses of odorants in broiler litter emission using standard solutions. Standard solutions containing 13 volatile compounds at 50 ppmv, 100 ppmv and 250 ppmv were sampled using Tenax TA sorbent tube and dynamic headspace sampler. The samples were analysed using thermal desorption gas chromatography-mass spectrometry olfactometry system (TD-GC-MS/O), providing data of human olfactory for identification and description of odorants detected. The Tenax TA sorbent tube and dynamic headspace sampler have successfully determined all volatiles used at all three concentrations with the Tenax TA sorbent tube sampling exhibiting relevant multiplication of peak area of volatiles corresponding to concentration sample. However, the dynamic headspace sampler has shown lower relevant multiplication of peak area corresponding to concentration of standard solution. Hence, both methods can be compared directly for qualitative information (chemical and olfactory characteristic) than quantitative information. This is evident with the strong occurrence of volatile compounds elucidating at similar retention time using Tenax TA sorbent tube and dynamic headspace sampler using all three standard solutions under identical TD-GC-MS/O analysis. Fast and simplification in sampling technique is observed using dynamic headspace sampler compared to Tenax TA sorbent tube that it would be a better direct source sampling solution.
Keywords— Broiler Litter, Odour, Sorbent Tube, Dynamic Headspace Sampling, TD-GC-MS/O.

Abstract- Vegetable Based Agro By-Products (VBAP) can be used as an alternative feed ingredient amidst rising commercial feedstuff costs. VBAPs contains nutritional amounts needed by animal for growth and reproduction. The proximate analysis and mineral content of a number of vegetable based agro byproducts which includes; cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitate L) trimmings, carrot (Daucus carota L) tubers, chayote (Sechium edule) fruits, lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) leaves, broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. Italica Plenck) trimmings, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruits, Chinese cabbage/wombok (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis) trimmings and potato (Solanum tuberosum) tubers are presented in this research. Drying the VBAP and fermentation has been studied in these researches which are methods in prolonging the shelf life and easier integration to animal feeds. The study revealed that dried unfermented VBAP have lower moisture and NFE contents, while higher in DM, ash, CP, crude protein, crude fat content compared to dried fermented VBAP (p-values of less than 0.01). Mineral content such as calcium has lower amount in dried unfermented VBAP but has higher amount in phosphorus compared with fermented dried VBAP (p-values of less than 0.01). Therefore, dried unfermented VBAP has greater potential than dried fermented VBAP as animal feed. Though, complete potential of these alternative feeds and feed resources can be appreciated by intensive study.
Keywords— Feeds, Fermentation, mineral content, proximate analysis, VBAP.

Abstract-
Background: The use of indigenous foods in the formulation of complementary food is advocated for sustainability and improved food security.
Objectives: The study investigated the chemical composition and sensory properties of complementary foods made from maize, African yam bean (AYB), groundnut, and crayfish flour blends.
Methodology: Whole maize, AYB, groundnuts, and crayfish were made into flour using standard procedures. The blends were formulated in ratios of maize: African yam bean: groundnut: crayfish flour (80:10:5:5; 70:15:10:5; 60:20:15:5; 50:25:20:5) and made as complementary foods. A commercial maize-based complementary food served as the control. The samples were evaluated for chemical and sensory properties using standard methods. Data collected were analyzed with IBM Statistical Product for Service Solutions software (version 21) and presented as descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviation). The means were compared and separated using analysis of variance and Duncan's multiple range test.
Results: The complementary food contained 55.75% to 65.32% moisture, 1.43% to 2.05% fat, 0.23% to 1.84% crude fiber, 1.43% to 2.05% ash, 12.97% to 18.48% protein, 11.77% to 28.33% carbohydrate, and 127.9 Kcal to 178.07 Kcal energy. There was also calcium (25.95 mg to 28.30 mg), iron (1.81 mg to 1.96 mg), potassium (2.68 mg to 5.4 mg), sodium (0.71 mg to 1.24 mg), and magnesium (1.35 mg to 1.94 mg). Beta-carotene (4.22 to 11.60 mg), thiamin (0.42 mg to 1.05 mg), riboflavin (1.80 mg to 2.85 mg), niacin (0.73 mg to 1.01 mg), vitamin C (3.10 to 30.17 mg), tannin (0.01 to 0.39 mg), phytate (0.01 to 1.43 mg), saponin (0.12 to 1.18 mg), flavonoids (0.09 to 1.13 mg), and phenol (0.01 to 0.14 mg) were also present. Samples 60:20:15:5, 70:15:10:5, 50:25:20:5, and 80:10:5:5 were superior in taste (6.80), appearance (6.25), mouthfeel (6.10), and color (6.70), respectively.
Conclusion: The complementary foods had improved protein, fat, fiber, and ash contents and comparable mineral and vitamin contents with the control. The general acceptability scores ranged from 6.13 to 6.23 on a nine-point scale.
Keywords— Chemical; sensory; complementary foods; indigenous flour blends; crayfish.

Abstract- Climate change and variability pose significant challenges to global agriculture, particularly in regions reliant on rainfed farming systems. Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells, and extreme weather events disrupt traditional cropping practices. Indian agriculture is predominantly influenced by south-west monsoon rainfall (June to September), The southwest monsoon season accounts for 60 to 90 percent of India's yearly rainfall, which is critical to the country's agricultural economy. Variations in rainfall distribution patterns are the primary cause of the country's increased likelihood of experiencing a drought-like condition. To successfully plan and manage agricultural ecosystems, it is necessary to understand the sequences of dry and wet spells, as well as the advent and withdrawal of the rainy season. The purpose of this review is to present the predicted odds of a dry and rainy spell by various researchers using the same model. From these reviews the estimated probabilities of dry and wet spell are not same per different researchers because the uneven distribution and erratic nature of rainfall in different regions. And the estimated date of advent and withdrawal of rainy season is also not same for results obtained from different researches due to the inconsistency of rainfall and the methods used by different researchers.
Keywords— Crop planning, Dry and wet spell, Markov Chain Probability Model, Onset and withdrawal, Rainfall.

Abstract-
Introduction: Therapy of TP53, mutation of MSD/AML with Niclosamide plus Azacitidine, is the end-stage phase of ITP/LGC Leukemia. The Constant therapy is unbroken with CHOP or R-CHOP as the second line therapy, plus nutrition HPLCHF, and decitabine ever since the early phase which should be given. Aims: No transfusion should be held since this early phase. Cytokine storm is the inducer of this advancement. Hypothesis: High Protein Low Carbohydrate High Fat (HPLCHF) and decitabine without transfusion should be the winner for survival ITP/LGC. Liquid therapy and aspirin are the first line symptomatic during the cytokine storm phase. Two dead cases of Large Granular Chronic Leukemia support this study.
Method: Hybrid My library and ChatGPT based, with academic search engine using Science Direct and EBSCOHost MEDLINE full text using keywords ITP/MDS/AML, and therapy, and case reports.
Result: Variables drugs is recorded such as pro-apoptotic agent Venetoclax a Bcl2- inhibitor, Fostamatinib a spleen tyrosine Kinase inhibitor, decitabine/azacitidine hypomethylation agent, CHOP (chemotherapy with prednisone) and splenectomy are given in the thrombocytopenia last moment, with MOD end-stage mortality less than 5 days due Multi/X/Total Antibiotic Resistance. Low carbohydrate, high-fat, high protein should be given in this early prediction low albumin level of severe thrombocytopenia in Dengue Lymphoma Malignant Fever (DFLM).
Discussion: Pathogenesis ITP, MDS, AML therapy in all phases, and the recorded mutation genetic/epigenetic, and immune landscape of TP53 and other mutant AML & higher risk MDS treated with azacitidine/decitabine.
Conclusion: HPLCHF nutrition and decitabine ever since the early phase should be given to support the body to cure themselves.
Keywords— ITP; Splenectomy; Prednisone; Low carbohydrate; often Protein nutrition; Decitabine.

Abstract- Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is the second most important crop in the world after dry bean. It belongs to the family Fabaceae. A large number of diseases have been reported on chickpea among them wilt is caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri. The evaluation of organic amendments viz., neem cake, castor cake and mustard cake and two bio-agent viz., Trichoderma viride and T. harzianum were selected for individual as well as with combination in field conditions. Per cent disease incidence was recorded at 60, 90 DAS and at harvest. After 60 DAS, minimum PDI (09.01%) was recorded in neem cake (500 kg ha^-1) + T. viride (2.5 kg ha^-1) which was followed by neem cake (500 kg ha^-1) + T. harzianum (2.5 kg ha^-1) (13.09%). The same results were observed after 90 days of sowing and at harvest. In yield, the maximum yield (1407 kg ha^-1) was noted in neem cake (500 kg ha^-1) + T. viride (2.5 kg ha^-1), whereas minimum yield (867 kg ha^-1) in T. harzianum (2.5 kg ha^-1).
Keywords— Chickpea, wilt, organic amendments, bio-agents and per cent disease incidence.

Abstract- This study assessed the contribution of ecosystem protection to developing ecotourism in Rwanda despite the persistent illegal human activities. Volcanoes National Park was the study area. Specifically, the research (1) found out the contribution of ecosystem protection to the development of ecotourism in that park, (2) the faced challenges, and (3) the strategies to overcome them. Descriptive research design and stratified and purposive random sampling techniques were applied. The literature review and the survey conducted with 404 respondents, who were randomly selected from the population of 27,221 residents of Kinigi Sector and 25 RDB staff, indicated that through the use of ecosystem protection strategies including the established zone areas, and local community involvement, the VNP’s revenues, visitors, and ecotourism activities increased. Human illegal activities such as hunting, illegal farming, and cutting trees were among the challenges facing ecosystem protection in the VNP. Due to RDB’s mobilization on the advantages of ecosystem protection, serious punishments, and different benefits they earn from ecotourism projects in and around the VNP, many residents stopped doing such illegal activities. As a result, the mountain gorillas’ number increased. It was concluded that proper implementation of ecosystem protection strategies is a good way to ensure ecosystem protection and ecotourism development. It was recommended that RDB should increase the benefits earned by local communities from ecosystem protection. Local leaders should work with RDB for awareness of ecosystem protection, while local communities should feel concerned about fighting all illegal activities threatening ecosystem protection and sustainable development in the VNP.
Keywords— Ecosystem, ecosystem protection, ecotourism.

Abstract- The study was carried out to determine the growth performance and carcass characteristics of growing rabbits fed diets containing waste sweet potato tuber meal supplemented with Centrosema pubenscens leaves. Sun-dried sweet potato waste tuber meal supplemented with Centrosema pubenscens leaves were used at various levels of 0%, 15%, 20% and 25% to determine the best replacement that would give optimum performance of growing rabbits. 16 growing rabbits of 3 months (12 weeks) of age were used for this experiment. They were divided into four treatment groups of 4 rabbits each. Each treatment was subdivided into two replicates of two rabbits each. Each replicate was housed in a cage. Each group was randomly assigned to experimental diet in a completely randomized design (CRD). Parameters measured were initial body weight, final body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, Feed conversion ratio (FCR), daily body weight gain, cost of production, internal organ weight, cut parts weight, dressed weight and percent dressed weight. Data collected were analyzed using one way Analysis of variance (ANOVA). In terms of daily feed intake, TMT 4 had the highest feed intake of 91.66g while TMT 3 had the lowest feed intake of (64.66g). The growing rabbits on TMT 4 (25% PWM) recorded significantly (P< 0.05) higher body weight gain than the other TMT groups while those in TMT 2 and TMT 3 recorded significantly low body weight gain. The growing rabbit in TMT 4 recorded the best feed conversion ratio of 4.45 which was significantly (P<0.05) better than the control TMT 2 and TMT 3 respectively. The significantly better feed conversion ratio for the rabbits in TMT 4 may be attributed to higher feed intake and high body weight gain of the rabbits. The values obtained for visceral organs (internal organs) varied (P < 0.05) with sweet potato waste meal supplemented with Centrosema pubenscens leaves inclusion in their diets. TMT 2 and TMT 1 (control) have the highest percent liver which was significantly (P <0.05) higher than other TMT groups. TMT 4 recorded the lowest kidney percent. However, heart, lungs and spleen of the growing rabbits did not show any significant difference (P > 0.05). The results of cut parts and organs obtained did not follow a definite pattern that can be attributed to treatment effects. This showed that the supplementation of sweet potato waste meal with Centrosema pubenscens leaves did not affect the development of certain body organs. The result of the carcass characteristics showed that the evaluated were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by dietary treatments. The live weights and eviscerated weight were highest in rabbits fed with 25% sweet potato waste meal supplemented with Centrosema pubenscens leaves. The cost/kg diet showed that the cheapest diet was diet 4 (N212.48) while the costliest was the control diet (Diet 1). In terms of cost of production, the lowest cost was TMT 4 (25%SPTM) (N886.04) while the costliest was TMT 1 (control) (N3,471.44). The result of the study showed that sweet potato waste meal supplemented with Centrosema pubenscens leaves could be used up to 25% in the diets of growing rabbits without affecting body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio.
Keywords— Growth performance, carcass characteristics, rabbits, sweet potato, centrosema leaves.

Abstract- The study was conducted to determine the dietary supplementation of sun-dried sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) waste meal with yeast additive on the growth performance of starter broiler chicks. The sundried sweet potato waste meal supplemented with yeast was used to replace yellow maize at various levels of 0%, 10%, 15% and 20%, respectively for diets 1, 2, 3 and 4 to determine the best replacement that would give optimal performance in starter broiler chicks. The result of the proximate composition of sundried sweet potato waste meal showed that it contained 88.75% dry matter, 11.25% moisture, 6.28% ash, 4.95% crude protein, 0.82% Ether Extract, 2.64% crude fibre, 74.06%, Nitrogen free extract (NFE), and 3013 Kcal/Kg metabolizable energy. One hundred (100) day-old Anak starter broiler chicks (Ross broiler chicks) were used for the experiment. They were divided into four (4) treatment groups of 24 broiler chicks each. Each treatment was subdivided into three replicates of 8 chicks per replicate. Each starter broiler diet was fed to a group of 24 chicks using completely randomized design (CRD) for 4 weeks. Feed and water were given to the chicks ad-libitum. Parameters measured included initial body weight, final body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and economics of production. Data collected were analysed using one way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). In the starter broiler phase, the starter broiler chicks on 20% sweet potato waste meal supplemented with yeast compared favourably with the control (P < 0.05) in terms of feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio and significantly (P < 0.05) performed better than those on other diets. The cost of production of the starter broiler chicks was lowest for those fed the control diet (Diet 1), N156.59, while the costliest was the starter broiler chicks on diet 3 (15% PWM) (N295.45). The cost/kg diet was cheapest for diet 1 (Control) (N560.07) and the costliest diet was diet 2 (10% PWM) (N625.66). It was therefore concluded that sundried sweet potato waste meal (Ipomea batata) could be used in the diets of starter broilers chicks up to 20% without affecting the body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion.
Keywords— Dietary supplementation, sweet potato, yeast, growth performance, broiler chicks.

Abstract- The study was conducted in the Project area of LIFCHASA in village Purbo Tethulia under Mohanganj upazila of Netrakona which lies in AEZ 2. A total of 102 households were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaire to identify the farmers’ socio-economic condition, bio-diversity, total biomass production and utilization. Data for the study were obtained through personal interviewing. Four categories of farmer viz. landless, marginal and small, medium and large were included in the study. There were 462 households in the village consisting of 2245 persons with average of 4.86 family-1. In the study area 23 tree, 27 field crop and vegetable and 25 weed species were observed. Biomass of field crops, vegetable and weed was estimated through harvesting methods. Biomass production was unequally proportionate among landless, marginal and small, medium and large farmers. The total biomass estimated in the village was 10.04 t farm-1 year-1 and the total utilization was found 14.55 t farm-1 year-1. The bio-energy was found 111.02 GJ farm-1 year-1 where 54.71 GJ farm-1 year-1 bio-energy consumed as fuel. The relationships between the variables were positively significant with the family size, farm size, annual income and problem faced on biomass production and utilization versus total biomass production and utilization.
Keywords— Biomass energy, Haor ecosystem, biomass production and its utilization, source, biomass pattern, Haor Ecosystem.

Abstract- Despite the pigeon pea's significance as a nutritious and affordable protein source, its production remains low due to the lack of improved, high-yielding seed varieties. This study, therefore, examines the factors influencing farmers' willingness to pay (WTP) for improved pigeon pea varieties in Oyo State, Nigeria. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 150 pigeon pea farmers were selected, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The contingent valuation method and logistic regression model were employed to analyze WTP and its determinants. Results indicate that while farmers lacked awareness of improved varieties, all respondents expressed a willingness to pay for seeds with desirable traits such as drought tolerance, early maturity, and high yield. Key determinants of WTP included age, farming experience, farm size, marital status, and farm income. The study concludes that improving access to enhanced seed varieties and raising farmer awareness are crucial steps toward increasing pigeon pea production and strengthening food security in Nigeria.
Keywords— Pigeon Pea, Willingness to Pay, Improved Varieties, Farmers, Nigeria.

Abstract- This study examines the heat resistance and adaptive strategies of Vanda tessellata, a resilient wild orchid species thriving in the semi-arid conditions of Wayanad, Western Ghats. Over five years (2019–2024), comprehensive field observations, physiological assessments, and environmental monitoring were conducted to evaluate its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and minimal water availability.
Our findings highlight that Vanda tessellata exhibits multiple survival mechanisms, including Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, which allows it to minimize water loss by absorbing CO₂ at night. The orchid also develops thickened cuticles and an extensive aerial root system that enhances moisture retention and nutrient uptake from humid air. Additionally, anthocyanin pigmentation was observed to provide photoprotective benefits by reducing oxidative stress under intense solar radiation. Microhabitat selection played a crucial role in heat tolerance, with orchids growing in shaded areas demonstrating higher survival rates than those in direct sunlight. Soil and substrate analysis revealed that the species primarily thrives on host trees with high water-holding capacity, suggesting a strong dependency on specific ecological conditions.
The study underscores the importance of habitat conservation, particularly in the context of climate change, which threatens the stability of these microhabitats. Conservation strategies should focus on protecting key forest patches, promoting assisted propagation techniques, and implementing long-term monitoring programs to track climate-induced changes in orchid populations. By understanding the adaptive strategies of Vanda tessellata, this research contributes to broader conservation efforts aimed at preserving heat-resistant orchid species in tropical ecosystems.
Keywords— Vanda tessellata, heat resistance, Western Ghats, Wayanad, CAM photosynthesis, orchid adaptation, climate resilience, aerial roots, habitat conservation, anthocyanin pigmentation.

Abstract- Orchid cultivation is a widely admired horticultural practice, yet it presents numerous challenges due to the susceptibility of orchids to various diseases. This comprehensive three-year study aims to document the most common diseases affecting orchid plants, their symptoms, and effective prevention and treatment methods. By examining fungal and bacterial infections, the research highlights their detrimental impact on plant health and productivity, while offering actionable solutions for mitigation. Fungal diseases such as black root, root rot, petal blight, and leaf spots were found to be prevalent, often exacerbated by environmental factors like excess moisture and poor air circulation. The study identifies effective strategies for managing these conditions, including the use of fungicides, improved drainage, and enhanced air circulation. Similarly, bacterial diseases, particularly bacterial soft and brown rot, were observed to spread rapidly under hot and humid conditions. Immediate intervention, such as the removal of infected material and the application of copper fungicides or hydrogen peroxide, proved crucial in controlling these outbreaks.
Preventive measures such as sanitation, environmental monitoring, and routine inspections emerged as critical components of disease management. The study also emphasizes the importance of integrating cultural practices, such as proper potting mediums and strategic plant spacing, to minimize disease risk. By combining traditional horticultural knowledge with modern scientific approaches, this research provides a holistic framework for maintaining orchid health.
The findings of this study serve as a valuable resource for orchid growers, researchers, and horticulturists, addressing the growing need for sustainable and efficient orchid disease management. This work underscores the significance of early detection, rapid response, and long-term preventive measures in safeguarding the biodiversity and aesthetic value of these exquisite plants.
Keywords— Orchid diseases, Plant pathology, Orchid pests and pathogens, Fungal infections in orchids, Bacterial diseases in orchids, viral orchid diseases, Disease identification, Plant disease diagnosis, Orchid disease symptoms, Disease prevention strategies, integrated pest management (IPM), Biological control of plant diseases.